The Fowler Kennedy Sport Medicine Clinic is proud to celebrate an incredible milestone for one of our own. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Dr. Robert Litchfield, Medical Director of Fowler Kennedy Sport Medicine Clinic, on becoming the 81st President of the Canadian Orthopaedic Association (COA).
This distinguished appointment recognizes Dr. Litchfield’s lifelong commitment to advancing orthopaedic surgery, sports medicine, research, education, and patient care. Throughout his career, he has become one of Canada’s most respected orthopaedic surgeons, earning the trust and admiration of colleagues, trainees, and patients alike. His presidency reflects decades of dedication to the profession and his passion for improving musculoskeletal health for Canadians.
For more than three decades, Dr. Litchfield has played a pivotal role in shaping the field of orthopaedic sports medicine. As an orthopaedic surgeon specializing in sports-related injuries of the knee, shoulder, and elbow, he has cared for thousands of patients—from recreational athletes to elite competitors—helping them recover from injury and safely return to the activities they love.
His patient-centred approach, combined with his commitment to evidence-based medicine, has established him as a leader in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of sports injuries.
At Fowler Kennedy, Dr. Litchfield’s influence extends far beyond the operating room. As Medical Director, he has helped guide the clinic’s vision of providing world-class, multidisciplinary care while fostering an environment of innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning. His leadership has supported the growth of one of Canada’s premier sport medicine centres, where physicians, surgeons, researchers, therapists, and learners work together to deliver exceptional care for patients from across the region and beyond.
In addition to his clinical work, Dr. Litchfield has made significant contributions to medical education and research. As a Professor in the Division of Orthopaedic Surgery at Western University, he has mentored generations of residents, fellows, medical students, and healthcare professionals. His dedication to teaching has helped shape the next generation of orthopaedic surgeons, many of whom continue to carry forward the values of excellence, integrity, and compassionate patient care that he exemplifies every day.
Dr. Litchfield’s research has also had a lasting impact on orthopaedic practice. Throughout his career, he has contributed extensively to clinical research, helping to advance the understanding and treatment of sports-related injuries. His work has informed best practices, influenced surgical techniques, and improved patient outcomes, reinforcing Fowler Kennedy’s longstanding commitment to combining clinical care with leading-edge research.
His appointment as President of the Canadian Orthopaedic Association is a fitting recognition of his longstanding service to the organization. Having been actively involved with the COA for many years, Dr. Litchfield has contributed to numerous committees, educational initiatives, and leadership roles dedicated to strengthening the orthopaedic profession across Canada. His collaborative leadership style and commitment to serving both patients and colleagues have earned him tremendous respect within the Canadian orthopaedic community.
As President, Dr. Litchfield will help guide the Association as it continues to advocate for excellence in musculoskeletal care, support innovation in orthopaedic surgery, and address the evolving healthcare needs of Canadians. His priorities include strengthening advocacy efforts, promoting professionalism, improving access to timely musculoskeletal care, supporting surgeon wellness, and ensuring that orthopaedic surgeons continue to play a leading role in delivering high-quality healthcare across the country. These priorities closely reflect the values that have guided his work throughout his career and align with Fowler Kennedy’s mission of delivering exceptional patient care through collaboration, education, and innovation.
Those who know Dr. Litchfield recognize that his greatest impact is not measured solely by the positions he has held or the accolades he has received. It is reflected in the countless patients whose lives have been improved through his care, the learners he has mentored throughout their careers, the colleagues he has inspired through his leadership, and the many contributions he has made to advancing orthopaedic surgery both nationally and internationally. His thoughtful leadership, humility, and unwavering dedication have made him an exceptional ambassador for the profession.
The entire Fowler Kennedy team is honoured to celebrate this remarkable achievement alongside Dr. Litchfield. His appointment as the 81st President of the Canadian Orthopaedic Association is not only a personal accomplishment but also a proud moment for our clinic, our academic community, and the many patients and healthcare professionals whose lives he has touched throughout his career.
Please join us in congratulating Dr. Robert Litchfield on this well-deserved honour. We look forward to seeing the continued impact of his leadership as he serves the Canadian Orthopaedic Association and helps shape the future of orthopaedic care in Canada.
Congratulations, Dr. Litchfield!